Happiness is too easily shaken when someone criticize us. If we share happy news and someone responds critically or with judgment, we can’t help but to feel discouraged, and our happiness can take a hit.

Inspired people pursue their inspiration simply because they can’t imagine another path.

Consider someone who inspires you, who may have faced adversity, rejection and criticism and never gave up. It wasn’t because they necessarily possessed more strength than anyone else, had “thicker skin,” wanted it more, or had the ability or opportunity to try harder than anyone else. It was because their inspiration was genuine and an unstoppable force stemming from their strongest foundation. All the rejection in the world can’t hinder one’s desire to do what inspires them.

Inspiration is not about ego because the ego would be far too bruised by adversity. While facing adversity may be disappointing, it never stops an individual who is truly inspired.

Happiness Example: I thought I liked playing baseball until they made fun of me. Now I’m not going to play.

Inspired Example: I love singing! I’m disappointed that I didn’t get the solo, but I’m never going to stop singing for me!